With sunny weather all year round, it’s always beach season in Queensland. So, what are the best beaches in Queensland? Let’s have a look at our top 10 across the state.
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands
Of all Queensland beaches, Whitehaven Beach is one of the most renowned – and for good reason. Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven is accessible by boat, plane or helicopter from Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach.
Its world-famous soft white sand stretches for more than seven kilometres, swirling amongst crystal clear blue, green and aqua waters. There are endless ways to enjoy Whitehaven Beach, from swimming, snorkelling and sailing, to skydiving and seaplane tours.
Local tip: The most common way to get to Whitehaven Beach is to take a boat or plane from Airlie Beach which is on the mainland, located roughly two hours drive north of Mackay.
Casuarina Beach, Cape Hillsborough National Park
For Queensland’s most iconic sunrise, get up bright and early to share the morning with kangaroos and wallabies as they start their day at Casuarina Beach. Part of the Cape Hillsborough National Park, this beach is full of wildlife due to its unique landscape of forest and coastline. The wallabies come to the beach in the early morning to look for a tasty snack at low tide.
Cape Hillsborough National Park is easily accessible from the city of Mackay, or when driving along the Pacific Coast Way.
Local tip: Be sure to read up on the rules and regulations for interacting with the wildlife in the national park.
Little Cove Beach, Noosa
Noosa is a thriving Queensland coastal town a two-hour drive north of Brisbane. Tucked in the famous Noosa National Park is one of the most secluded and stunning Queensland beaches, Little Cove Beach. A well-kept secret (for now), Little Cove’s calm turquoise waters are protected by the natural bushland that wraps around the coastline. It’s also positioned away from the often crowded Noosa Main Beach.
After visiting the beach, head along the national park trail for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Through the protected wildlife reserve, you can spot some of Australia’s most famous animals. The national park trail also has great viewing points to see marine life like dolphins, turtles and whales.
Local tip: If a bush walk doesn’t take your fancy, head into town after a day at the beach for boutique shopping and a vibrant restaurant and nightlife.
Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas
For tropical weather, fine dining, palm trees and warm water, Four Mile Beach is a year-round destination. From Four Mile Beach you can access daily tours to the Great Barrier Reef as well as surfing, kitesurfing and sailing. In town, you can enjoy wellness retreats, markets, galleries and world-class restaurants with fresh seafood.
Local tip: Look for accommodation in Port Douglas, and take a day trip to the World’s oldest surviving tropical rainforest, the Daintree.
Tangalooma Beach, Moreton Island
Tangalooma Beach is part of Moreton Island, which is located just off the coast of Brisbane (Queensland’s capital city). Moreton Island has many beautiful beaches but Tangalooma is at the top of the list due to its famous shipwrecks. Be sure to bring your GoPro as you snorkel and dive your way through the wrecks that are home to thousands of colourful fish and marine life.
Tangalooma is a popular weekend destination for local camping and boating enthusiasts. On the island itself, you can enjoy 4×4 quad bike tours, kayaking, swimming and snorkelling, with plenty of accommodation options on the island for an extended stay.
Local tip: The passenger ferry from Brisbane to Tangalooma runs daily and takes just over one hour. However, there are limited spots available so be sure to book well in advance when planning your trip.
Rainbow Bay, Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is one of the most iconic Queensland coastal towns, housing some of the state’s best beaches. There is a long list of famous beaches in this area but, to live like a local, check out Rainbow Bay.
With some of the best wave conditions in the world, it’s no wonder so many famous surfers have come from this region. But don’t worry, the waves here suit all swimming and surfing abilities, so rent a board and have a go!
Local tip: Have lunch at a local cafe or surf club to really get the feeling of living in this laid-back coastal town, or take a stroll to enjoy the stunning Kirra Hill Lookout.
Myall Beach, Cape Tribulation
Myall Beach is the meeting place of two breathtaking natural sites: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This unique combination means you can hike through the beautiful rainforest with waterfalls and wildlife before cooling off in the Great Barrier Reef.
The trees from the rainforest reach the water’s edge – making it possibly the most stunning setting to sunbake and swim in Australia. You can even take a horse ride along the beach for an unforgettable experience.
Local tip: Myall Beach is part of the Daintree Rainforest and has only two designated points of entry. Be sure to plan your trip by car or by ferry, as this remote location is 140 kilometres from the closest Queensland coastal city, Cairns.
Images courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland and Shutterstock.
